Group A:

Uganda 2-1 Burundi

Somalia 0-0 Djibouti

Uganda Cranes commenced the 2019 CECAFA Senior Challenge  Cup expedition on a sound note following a 2-1 victory over Burundi at the Startimes stadium, Lugogo.

Proline Fc midfielder Bright Anukani opened up the scorers for Uganda Cranes in the 8th minute with a low shot on target after striker Fahad Bayo connected him with a headed pass.

In the 21st minute, Fahad Bayo doubled the lead to make it 2-0 for Uganda Cranes before the break.

Burundi pulled back in the second half with a consolation from the sport-kick in the 60th minute through Rurasenga Cedric Dammy.

Uganda Cranes would have added the third goal but Allan Okello’s shot hit the post in 77th minute.

Vianne Ssekajugo was in  a good position to net the rebound but his effort went over the bar.

“We we’re very much pleased with the  first half and our players were implementing that we have practiced” said Uganda Cranes Headcoach Jonathan McKinstry during a post match interview.

Uganda Cranes Headcoach made three tactical changes in the second half by bringing on KCCA midfielder Nicolas Kasozi for Shafiq Kagimu in the 69th minute.

Then he called on a double change 10 minutes later: introducing Joackim Ojera and Muzamir Mutyaba for Viane Ssekajugo and Bright Anukani respectively. The first game in group A between Somalia  and Djibouti ended goalless.

Uganda Cranes X1; Charles Lukwago, Pual Willa, Mustafa Kizza, John Revita, Halid Lwaliwa, Shafiq Kajimu(Nicholas Kasozi), Bright Anukani(Muzamir Mutyaba), Allan Okello, Ben Ocen, Fahad Bayo, Viane Ssekajugo(Joackim Ojera).